Knowra Autism Autism Autism is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition involving differences in social communication and patterns of behavior or interests. It varies widely among individuals and can involve sensory differences and support needs.
Social communication : The exchange and interpretation of meaning through language, gesture, facial expression, and conversational interaction. Differences in social communication are one of autism’s defining diagnostic features.
Autism diagnosis : A clinical determination that a person meets established criteria for autism. Diagnosis can clarify support needs and open access to accommodations and services.
Neurodevelopment : The processes through which the nervous system develops and changes across the lifespan. Autism is understood as a developmental condition, with traits emerging through nervous-system development.
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder : A neurodevelopmental condition characterized by persistent inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. ADHD can resemble or co-occur with autism, but its diagnostic features differ.
Autistic self-advocacy : Efforts by autistic people to represent their interests and shape decisions affecting their lives. Self-advocates have challenged exclusion and called for autonomy, access, and meaningful participation.
Repetitive behaviors : Repeated movements, speech, routines, or patterns of activity that can provide predictability or regulation. Restricted or repetitive patterns form the other central diagnostic domain.
Autism spectrum disorder : The diagnostic category used in clinical classification systems for autism. Clinical criteria define the features used to identify autism in practice.
Autism genetics : The study of genetic contributions to autism, involving many genes and varied inheritance patterns. Genetic research shows substantial heritable influence without identifying a single autism gene.
Social anxiety disorder : A disorder involving intense fear of social scrutiny or negative evaluation. Social withdrawal can occur in both, but autistic social differences are not defined by fear of judgment.
Identity-first language : Language that names a person as autistic rather than describing autism as separate from them. Many autistic people prefer “autistic person,” while preferences vary among individuals.
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